Do you know that feeling when an actor completely disappears into a role, making you forget they’re acting? That’s Vanessa Kirby for you. She’s got this rare ability to steal the show, whether she’s playing a fiery empress, a cunning arms dealer, or an MI6 agent who can hold her own in a fight.
I’ve been following her career closely, and let me tell you—her performances are something else. If you haven’t yet dived into her filmography, you’re seriously missing out. So, let’s take a journey through her top five movies, the ones that truly showcase her talent, and why they deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. About Time (2013)
Let’s go back to where it all began. Well, not exactly the beginning of her career, but the moment she caught people’s attention on the big screen. About Time is a charming romantic drama where time travel isn’t about fixing grand, world-ending problems—it’s about cherishing life’s little moments.
Vanessa Kirby plays Joanna, a witty and stylish best friend to Rachel McAdams‘s character, Mary. She’s not the lead, but she leaves an impression. You know those friends in movies who steal every scene they’re in? That’s her. She’s effortlessly fun, adding warmth and humor to a film that’s already packed with heart.
This movie was a stepping stone for Kirby, showing early signs of the screen presence that would make her a star. Plus, if you’re in the mood for a movie that makes you appreciate life (and maybe ugly cry a little), About Time is a must-watch.
2. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
Fast forward a few years, and boom—Vanessa Kirby isn’t just stealing scenes; she’s commanding them. In Mission: Impossible – Fallout, she plays Alanna Mitsopolis, aka the White Widow, a powerful arms dealer with a mysterious edge. From the moment she steps on screen, you can’t take your eyes off her. She’s got this cool, unpredictable energy that makes you wonder: is she friend or foe?
And let’s be real—when you’re acting alongside Tom Cruise, holding your own is no small feat. But Kirby? She makes it look effortless. She brings elegance, danger, and a little bit of mischief to the role, making it clear she’s a force to be reckoned with.
This was a career-defining moment. Fallout wasn’t just another action movie—it was one of the best in the Mission: Impossible franchise. Kirby’s performance left fans wanting more, which is exactly why she returned for Dead Reckoning, Part One.
3. Hobbs & Shaw (2019)
Okay, let’s talk about action. If you thought Vanessa Kirby was all about historical dramas and sophisticated roles, think again. In Hobbs & Shaw, she plays Hattie Shaw, an MI6 agent who can throw a punch just as well as she delivers a sharp one-liner. Oh, and she also happens to be Jason Statham’s sister in the film.
The chemistry between Kirby, Statham, and Dwayne Johnson is electric. Whether she’s dodging bullets, fighting off bad guys, or outsmarting the enemy, she does it all with style. And let’s not forget—she’s doing her own stunts. Watching her take down opponents with precision is ridiculously satisfying.
This film proved that Kirby wasn’t just a dramatic actress—she could be an action star, too. And honestly? She was one of the best parts of the movie. Hollywood, take note: We need more action roles for her!
4. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning, Part One (2023)
Remember when I said Vanessa Kirby’s White Widow left fans wanting more? Well, Dead Reckoning, Part One delivered. This time around, her character is even more integral to the story, and she plays it with an extra dose of intensity.
Without giving away too many spoilers, let’s just say that the stakes are higher, the twists are bigger, and Kirby’s performance is even more magnetic. You can see the layers in her character—she’s not just a villain or an ally; she’s something in between. And that unpredictability? That’s what makes her so compelling to watch.
It’s one thing to make an impression in a big franchise. It’s another to come back and outdo yourself. Kirby proved once again that she belongs in the action genre, and honestly, we wouldn’t mind seeing her lead her own spy thriller.
5. Napoleon (2023)
Now, let’s switch gears. If you thought Kirby was great in action films, just wait until you see her in a historical epic. Napoleon, directed by Ridley Scott, features her as Empress Joséphine, the wife of the legendary French ruler. And wow—she delivers a powerhouse performance.
Playing opposite Joaquin Phoenix’s Napoleon, Kirby doesn’t just hold her own—she dominates. Her Joséphine is complex, intelligent, and emotionally charged. She’s not just a supporting character; she’s the heart of the film. The chemistry between her and Phoenix makes every scene electric, and you can feel the weight of history in her performance.
This was Vanessa Kirby at her finest. She took on a massive historical role and made it completely her own. Her portrayal of Joséphine added depth to Napoleon, turning it into more than just a war epic—it became a love story, a power struggle, and a character study all in one.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the takeaway here? Vanessa Kirby is a rare talent. She’s got the charm to light up a romantic drama, the intensity to command an action film, and the depth to bring history to life. And the best part? She’s just getting started.
If you haven’t yet explored her filmography, now’s the time. Start with About Time for a feel-good watch, then move on to Fallout and Hobbs & Shaw for some action-packed fun. Finish strong with Napoleon to see her at the top of her game.
And who knows? Maybe the next time we talk about Vanessa Kirby, she’ll have another iconic role under her belt. Something tells me she’s not slowing down anytime soon.
